2023 Subaru Ascent

Introduction: The 2023 Subaru Ascent is a midsize SUV powered by a standard 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). It offers a roomy cabin, a comprehensive suite of safety features, and plenty of cargo space. Despite its strengths, some owners have reported issues with the vehicle, which are detailed below.

Engine

• 2.4-liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder
  • Hesitation on Acceleration: Owners have experienced hesitation or stumbling when accelerating from a stop, particularly in cold weather.
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine may hesitate or stumble when the accelerator is pressed, causing a delay in acceleration.
  • Solution: Subaru has released a software update to address the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: No additional cost
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
  • Shuddering or Vibration: Owners have reported experiencing shuddering or vibration while driving.
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission may shudder or vibrate, especially when shifting from low to higher gears.
  • Solution: Subaru has extended the warranty for the CVT to 100,000 miles/5 years and has released software updates to address the issue.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: No additional cost
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• No Issues Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Lag: Owners have reported experiencing lag or freezing with the infotainment system.
• Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen may become unresponsive, freeze, or display errors, affecting navigation, audio, and other functions.
• Solution: Subaru has released software updates to address the issue.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: No additional cost
• Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation: Owners have noticed condensation or fogging inside the headlight assemblies.
• Description/Symptoms: Moisture can accumulate inside the headlights, causing poor visibility and condensation on the inside of the lens.
• Solution: Subaru has replaced headlight assemblies under warranty for affected vehicles.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: No additional cost
• Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunction: Owners have reported issues with the climate control system not functioning properly.
• Description/Symptoms: The climate control may not respond to inputs, adjust temperature incorrectly, or fail to blow air.
• Solution: Subaru has released software updates to address the issue and replaced faulty components as needed.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
• Recalls: None Found

Summary: Overall, the 2023 Subaru Ascent has been well-received, but some issues have been reported. While the engine and transmission issues appear to have been addressed by software updates, concerns with the infotainment system, headlight condensation, and climate control malfunction remain. The severity and cost of repairs can vary depending on the specific issue encountered, but most issues can be resolved under warranty.